IMG_7438For my final project, I had to last minute change the concept since my midi controller idea fell through and proved to be unfit for this assignment. My project now is a musical map that lets users play music from different regions of the world. I initially wanted to create a map of the globe but decided to consolidate my map into one continent. The continent I chose was South America (SA). South America resonated with me the most because of my love of Latin American music! I initially was going to take an image of the map from off of the internet but decided to design my own map of SA. This was designed in Adobe Illustrator.

I picked a total of 13 songs all from different parts of SA:

Brazil: Dindi – Sylvia Telles

Venezuela: Mi Corazon – Los Melodicos

Colombia: Tobaco y Ron – Rodolfo y su typica ra7

Ecuador: Escribeme – Tierra Canela

Suriname: Moi Misi – Sabokoe

Guyana: Catch me Lova – JMC

French Guiana: Kraze  Dj Action X Jaydieff

Peru: Peru de Valses: Y se llama Peru – Oscar Avilles

Chile: 1977 – Ana Tijoux

Argentina: Buenos Aires – Nathy Peluso

Paraguay: Inevitable – Shako El Sh

Uruguay: Cora Aislado – Bebe 21

Bolivia: Amor Segrado – Chila Jatun

 

USER TESTING:

MUSICAL MAP

Interaction Design:

Users simply can move the joystick, which acts as a cursor on the screen and press on the squares in the p5 sketch to trigger a unique sound file from each country.

Aesthetic Design:

I made my box out of cardboard and painted on several separate sheets of paper a similar color scheme to my digital design of the map. I then glued those pieces of paper onto the box!

P5 Code Sketch:

https://editor.p5js.org/dianadonatella/sketches/NDBhUIeWI

P5 Code:

let img; //variable for image

//variables for square buttons.
let Colombia;
let Argentina;
let Peru;
let Paraguay;
let Uruguay;
let Guyana;
let Fguiana;
let Venezuela;
let Brazil;
let Bolivia;
let Ecuador;
let Chile;
let Suriname;

//colors for each country's buttons
let color_state_col;
let color_state_ven;
let color_state_arg;
let color_state_bra;
let color_state_bol;
let color_state_per;
let color_state_guy;
let color_state_par;
let color_state_uru;
let color_state_chi;
let color_state_fgu;
let color_state_sur;
let color_state_ecu;

//PLAYING AND PAUSING states
let isColombiaPlaying = false;
let isVenezuelaPlaying = false;
let isArgentinaPlaying = false;
let isBrazilPlaying = false;
let isBoliviaPlaying = false;
let isPeruPlaying = false;
let isGuyanaPlaying = false;
let isParaguayPlaying = false;
let isUruguayPlaying = false;
let isChilePlaying = false;
let isFguianaPlaying = false;
let isSurinamePlaying = false;
let isEcuadorPlaying = false;

//ORIGINAL BUTTON COLORS
let originalColorCol;
let originalColorVen;
let originalColorArg;
let originalColorBra;
let originalColorBol;
let originalColorPer;
let originalColorGuy;
let originalColorPar;
let originalColorUru;
let originalColorChi;
let originalColorFgu;
let originalColorSur;
let originalColorEcu;

//For joystick
let joystick_X;
let joystick_Y;
let joystick_button;
let circleX;
let circleY;

//Only update when Joystick is pressed, making it equal to the time that the joystick was pressed at
let LastTime = 0;
// Always updated with the latest number of Millis
let CurrentTime = 0;

function success(e) {
  console.log("works: ", e);
}

function error(e) {
  console.log("oopsie: ", e);
}

function loading(e) {
  log("loading", e);
}


function preload() {
  img = loadImage("SA_MAP.png");
  Colombia = loadSound("./COLOMBIA.mp3", success, error, loading);
  Argentina = loadSound("./ARGENTINA.mp3");
  Peru = loadSound("./PERU.mp3");
  Paraguay = loadSound("./PARAGUAY.mp3");
  Uruguay = loadSound("./URUGUAY.mp3");
  Guyana = loadSound("./GUYANA.mp3");
  Fguiana = loadSound("./FGUIANA.mp3");
  Venezuela = loadSound("./VENEZUELA.mp3");
  Brazil = loadSound("./BRAZIL.mp3");
  Bolivia = loadSound("./BOLIVIA.mp3");
  Ecuador = loadSound("./ECUADOR.mp3");
  Chile = loadSound("./CHILE.mp3");
  Suriname = loadSound("./SURINAME.mp3");
}

function setup() {
  createCanvas(1920, 1020);
  background(220);
  //   colors for each button
  color_state_col = color(32, 37, 179);
  color_state_ven = color(35, 60, 98);
  color_state_arg = color(32, 37, 179);
  color_state_bra = color(100, 57, 79);
  color_state_bol = color(35, 60, 98);
  color_state_per = color(32, 37, 179);
  color_state_guy = color(35, 60, 98);
  color_state_par = color(24, 32, 89);
  color_state_uru = color(24, 32, 89);
  color_state_chi = color(100, 57, 79);
  color_state_fgu = color(24, 32, 89);
  color_state_sur = color(32, 37, 179);
  color_state_ecu = color(24, 32, 89);

  //original state colors after pausing
  originalColorCol = color_state_col;
  originalColorVen = color_state_ven;
  originalColorArg = color_state_arg;
  originalColorBra = color_state_bra;
  originalColorBol = color_state_bol;
  originalColorPer = color_state_per;
  originalColorGuy = color_state_guy;
  originalColorPar = color_state_par;
  originalColorUru = color_state_uru;
  originalColorChi = color_state_chi;
  originalColorFgu = color_state_fgu;
  originalColorSur = color_state_sur;
  originalColorEcu = color_state_ecu;

  circleX = width / 2;
  circleY = height / 2;
}

function draw() {
  if (img) {
    image(img, 0, 0, width, height);
  }
  
//references colors and sets sizes for each square 
  //COLOMBIA
  fill(color_state_col);
  rect(790, 135, 40, 40);

  //VENEZUELA
  fill(color_state_ven);
  rect(910, 80, 35, 35);

  //ARGENTINA
  fill(color_state_arg);
  rect(940, 700, 50, 50);

  //BRAZIL
  fill(color_state_bra);
  rect(1150, 400, 50, 50);

  //BOLIVIA
  fill(color_state_bol);
  rect(935, 435, 40, 40);

  //PERU
  fill(color_state_per);
  rect(800, 360, 40, 40);

  //GUYANA
  fill(color_state_guy);
  rect(1038, 125, 23, 23);

  //PARAGUAY
  fill(color_state_par);
  rect(1012, 490, 30, 30);

  //URUGUAY
  fill(color_state_uru);
  rect(1120, 700, 30, 30);

  //CHILE
  fill(color_state_chi);
  rect(800, 600, 40, 40);

  //FGUIANA
  fill(color_state_fgu);
  rect(1170, 90, 30, 30);

  //SURINAME
  fill(color_state_sur);
  rect(1090, 58, 25, 25);

  //ECUADOR
  fill(color_state_ecu);
  rect(650, 200, 30, 30);
  
  //increments joystick in the X or Y position

  if (joystick_X > 800) {
    circleX += 5;
  }
  if (joystick_X < 200) {
    circleX -= 5;
  }

  if (joystick_Y > 800) {
    circleY -= 5;
  }
  if (joystick_Y < 200) {
    circleY += 5;
  }
  
  //cursor shape and design
  
  fill(0, 0, 0, 100);
  circle(circleX, circleY, 30);
  stroke(255);
  line(circleX, circleY + 30, circleX, circleY - 30);
  line(circleX - 30, circleY, circleX + 30, circleY);
  JoyStickPressed();
  if (!serialActive) {
    text("Press Space Bar to select Serial Port", 20, 30);
  } else {
    text("Connected", 20, 30);
  }

  console.log(circleX);
}
// to check when joystick is pressed and to play or pause the song playing for a specific country

function JoyStickPressed() {


  //Updating current time
  CurrentTime = millis();
  if (joystick_button == 1 && CurrentTime > LastTime + 2000) {
    // Check if the joystick is within the Colombia button
    if (
      circleX > 790 &&
      circleX < 790 + 40 &&
      circleY > 135 &&
      circleY < 135 + 40
    ) {
      if (!isColombiaPlaying) {
        Colombia.play();
      } else {
        Colombia.pause();
      }
      isColombiaPlaying = !isColombiaPlaying;
      color_state_col = isColombiaPlaying ? color(255) : originalColorCol;
    }

    if (
      circleX > 910 &&
      circleX < 910 + 35 &&
      circleY > 80 &&
      circleY < 80 + 35
    ) {
      if (!isVenezuelaPlaying) {
        Venezuela.play();
      } else {
        Venezuela.pause();
      }
      isVenezuelaPlaying = !isVenezuelaPlaying;
      color_state_ven = isVenezuelaPlaying ? color(255) : originalColorVen;
    }

    if (
      circleX > 940 &&
      circleX < 940 + 50 &&
      circleY > 700 &&
      circleY < 700 + 50
    ) {
      if (!isArgentinaPlaying) {
        Argentina.play();
      } else {
        Argentina.pause();
      }
      isArgentinaPlaying = !isArgentinaPlaying;
      color_state_arg = isArgentinaPlaying ? color(255) : originalColorArg;
    }

    if (
      circleX > 1150 &&
      circleX < 1150 + 50 &&
      circleY > 400 &&
      circleY < 400 + 50
    ) {
      if (!isBrazilPlaying) {
        Brazil.play();
      } else {
        Brazil.pause();
      }
      isBrazilPlaying = !isBrazilPlaying;
      color_state_bra = isBrazilPlaying ? color(255) : originalColorBra;
    }

    if (
      circleX > 935 &&
      circleX < 935 + 40 &&
      circleY > 435 &&
      circleY < 435 + 40
    ) {
      if (!isBoliviaPlaying) {
        Bolivia.play();
      } else {
        Bolivia.pause();
      }
      isBoliviaPlaying = !isBoliviaPlaying;
      color_state_bol = isBoliviaPlaying ? color(255) : originalColorBol;
    }

    if (
      circleX > 800 &&
      circleX < 800 + 40 &&
      circleY > 360 &&
      circleY < 360 + 40
    ) {
      if (!isPeruPlaying) {
        Peru.play();
      } else {
        Peru.pause();
      }
      isPeruPlaying = !isPeruPlaying;
      color_state_per = isPeruPlaying ? color(255) : originalColorPer;
    }
    if (
      circleX > 1038 &&
      circleX < 1038 + 23 &&
      circleY > 125 &&
      circleY < 125 + 23
    ) {
      if (!isGuyanaPlaying) {
        Guyana.play();
      } else {
        Guyana.pause();
      }
      isGuyanaPlaying = !isGuyanaPlaying;
      color_state_guy = isGuyanaPlaying ? color(255) : originalColorGuy;
    }

    if (
      circleX > 1012 &&
      circleX < 1012 + 30 &&
      circleY > 490 &&
      circleY < 490 + 30
    ) {
      if (!isParaguayPlaying) {
        Paraguay.play();
      } else {
        Paraguay.pause();
      }
      isParaguayPlaying = !isParaguayPlaying;
      color_state_par = isParaguayPlaying ? color(255) : originalColorPar;
    }

    if (
      circleX > 1120 &&
      circleX < 1120 + 30 &&
      circleY > 700 &&
      circleY < 700 + 30
    ) {
      if (!isUruguayPlaying) {
        Uruguay.play();
      } else {
        Uruguay.pause();
      }
      isUruguayPlaying = !isUruguayPlaying;
      color_state_uru = isUruguayPlaying ? color(255) : originalColorUru;
    }

    if (
      circleX > 800 &&
      circleX < 800 + 40 &&
      circleY > 600 &&
      circleY < 600 + 40
    ) {
      if (!isChilePlaying) {
        Chile.play();
      } else {
        Chile.pause();
      }
      isChilePlaying = !isChilePlaying;
      color_state_chi = isChilePlaying ? color(255) : originalColorChi;
    }

    if (
      circleX > 1170 &&
      circleX < 1170 + 30 &&
      circleY > 90 &&
      circleY < 90 + 30
    ) {
      if (!isFguianaPlaying) {
        Fguiana.play();
      } else {
        Fguiana.pause();
      }
      isFguianaPlaying = !isFguianaPlaying;
      color_state_fgu = isFguianaPlaying ? color(255) : originalColorFgu;
    }

    if (
      circleX > 1090 &&
      circleX < 1090 + 25 &&
      circleY > 58 &&
      circleY < 58 + 25
    ) {
      if (!isSurinamePlaying) {
        Suriname.play();
      } else {
        Suriname.pause();
      }
      isSurinamePlaying = !isSurinamePlaying;
      color_state_sur = isSurinamePlaying ? color(255) : originalColorSur;
    }

    if (
      circleX > 650 &&
      circleX < 650 + 30 &&
      circleY > 200 &&
      circleY < 200 + 30
    ) {
      if (!isEcuadorPlaying) {
        Ecuador.play();
      } else {
        Ecuador.pause();
      }
      isEcuadorPlaying = !isEcuadorPlaying;
      color_state_ecu = isEcuadorPlaying ? color(255) : originalColorEcu;
    }
    LastTime = millis();
  }
}

function keyPressed() {
  if (key == " ") {
    // important to have in order to start the serial connection!!
    setUpSerial();
  }
}


//TO SET UP SERIAL CONNECTION
function readSerial(data) {
  ////////////////////////////////////
  //READ FROM ARDUINO HERE
  ////////////////////////////////////

  if (data != null) {
    // make sure there is actually a message
    // split the message
    let fromArduino = split(trim(data), ",");
    // if the right length, then proceed
    if (fromArduino.length == 3) {
      // only store values here
      // do everything with those values in the main draw loop

      // We take the string we get from Arduino and explicitly
      // convert it to a number by using int()
      // e.g. "103" becomes 103
      joystick_X = int(fromArduino[0]);
      joystick_Y = int(fromArduino[1]);
      joystick_button = int(fromArduino[2]);
    }
  }
}

Arduino Code:

int xValue = 0 ;
int yValue = 0 ; 
int bValue = 0 ;

void setup()	
{	
    Serial.begin(9600) ;
    pinMode(8,INPUT); 
    digitalWrite(8,HIGH);	
}	

void loop()	
{	
    xValue = analogRead(A2);	
    yValue = analogRead(A1);	
    bValue = digitalRead(8);	
    Serial.print(xValue,DEC);
    Serial.print(",");
    Serial.print(yValue,DEC);
    Serial.print(",");
    Serial.println(!bValue);

    delay(10);	
}

Schematic:

 

CHALLENGES:

I initially had quite a few issues in p5 trying to upload the song files. I realized that it was because I placed all the songs in a folder and P5 couldn’t find the path to that folder. I also had issues with organizing the square buttons on the screen, as well as cuing and pausing the music in combination with the joystick!

Improvements:

I would really like to make my p5 sketch a bit more elaborate and maybe add some sort of extra LED aspect to my arduino to make things a bit more exciting!

 

VIDEOS FROM THE SHOWCASE:

IMG_7438

IMG_7445

The showcase was incredibly fun and I really loved seeing everyone’s projects. I am very excited for building more fun projects in the future!!

 

Concept:

My project concept is one I came to fall in love with. I always liked the idea of taking pictures and so being able to create an interactive environment, where I am able to solve a puzzle using a picture I just took, I think is very fun. This I think is a metaphor for just how challenging but fun this class was. The puzzle could represent some of the challenges I faced throughout the class and building the puzzle represents the way in which my skills developed over the course of the 14 weeks. At the end when you look at the finished puzzle and feel proud of yourself for solving, represents how happy and proud I am of myself, not only to have finished the class, but having done so with new skills and I guess a love for physical computing. I feel like a genius, which is exactly what my LCD screen says when I complete the puzzle.

Schematic and Modelling:

Images of project:

User Testing videos:

How does the implementation work?

The project’s core idea is straightforward: manipulate the puzzle pieces using the joystick and follow on-screen instructions by pressing the buttons accordingly. The inspiration behind this setup actually came from the PS5 controller. I was dead set on incorporating a joystick into the design, and that sparked the whole concept.

Description of interaction design:

The design is meant to be user-friendly. I aimed for simplicity, assuming everyone knows the basics of a joystick. The on-screen instructions should guide players smoothly through the game. It’s a balance—simple enough for anyone to dive in yet not overly basic to bore them. That’s where the difficulty levels come in. I’ve got three, but I’ve only tested two myself, only managing to crack the first level. Give it a shot and see how far you can go!

Description of Arduino code + code snippets

The Arduino sketch I’ve got sets up a cool interface using buttons and a joystick to handle an LCD display and communicate using serial communication. First off, it gets things going by setting up pins for the buttons and joystick, along with initializing a LiquidCrystal display. The setup() function takes care of configuring serial communication, initializing pins, and prepping the LCD screen. The loop() function takes care of button presses and joystick moves. And when it detects these actions, it sends messages through serial communication. Each action—like a mouse click, difficulty level selection, joystick move, or even a command to snap a picture—is translated into a specific message. This sketch is a great listener too. It keeps an ear out for incoming messages through the serial port. When it gets specific ones like ‘TIMER:’, ‘MOVES:’, or ‘SOLVED’, it updates the LCD screen accordingly. So, you’ll see things like timer values ticking away, move counts racking up, and a sweet congratulatory message popping up when you crack that puzzle.

#include <LiquidCrystal.h>

const int XbuttonPin = 2;
const int SbuttonPin = 3;
const int TbuttonPin = 4;
const int CbuttonPin = 5;
const int joystickXPin = A0; // Analog pin for joystick X-axis
const int joystickYPin = A1; // Analog pin for joystick Y-axis
const int threshold = 50; // Threshold for joystick sensitivity
//bool isDifficulty = false;

LiquidCrystal lcd(6, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8);

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  pinMode(XbuttonPin, INPUT_PULLUP);
  pinMode(SbuttonPin, INPUT_PULLUP);
  pinMode(TbuttonPin, INPUT_PULLUP);
  pinMode(CbuttonPin, INPUT_PULLUP);

  lcd.begin(16, 2);
  lcd.clear();
}

void loop() {
  if (digitalRead(XbuttonPin) == LOW) {
    Serial.println("MOUSE_CLICK");
    delay(1000); // Debounce delay
  }
  
  if (digitalRead(SbuttonPin) == LOW) {
    Serial.println('2');
    delay(100); // Debounce delay
  }
  
  if (digitalRead(TbuttonPin) == LOW) {
    Serial.println('1');
    delay(1000); // Debounce delay
  }
  
  if (digitalRead(CbuttonPin) == LOW) {
    Serial.println('3');
    delay(100); // Debounce delay
  }

  if (digitalRead(TbuttonPin) == LOW) {
    Serial.println('C');
    delay(100); // Debounce delay
  }
  
  int xVal = analogRead(joystickXPin); // Read X-axis value
  int yVal = analogRead(joystickYPin); // Read Y-axis value

  if (xVal < 512 - threshold) {
    Serial.println("LEFT");
    delay(500); // Debounce delay
  } else if (xVal > 512 + threshold) {
    Serial.println("RIGHT");
    delay(500); // Debounce delay
  }

  if (yVal < 512 - threshold) {
    Serial.println("DOWN");
    delay(500); // Debounce delay
  } else if (yVal > 512 + threshold) {
    Serial.println("UP");
    delay(500); // Debounce delay
  }
  if (Serial.available() > 0) {
    String message = Serial.readStringUntil('\n');
    
    if (message.startsWith("TIMER:")) {
      lcd.setCursor(0, 0);
      lcd.print(message.substring(6)); // Print the timer message
    } else if (message.startsWith("MOVES:")) {
      lcd.setCursor(0, 1);
      lcd.print("Moves: " + message.substring(6)); // Print the move counter message
    } else if (message == "SOLVED") {
      lcd.clear();
      lcd.setCursor(0, 0);
      lcd.print("You are a GENIUS!!!");
      delay(5000); // Display "Puzzle Solved!" for 2 seconds
      lcd.clear();
    }
  }
}

Description of p5.js code + code snippets + embedded sketch

My p5.js puzzle game lets you interact with images, customizable with varying difficulty levels. It progresses through welcome, instructions, and gameplay phases. The Puzzle class manages the game mechanics—moves, shuffling tiles, checking progress, and joystick input. The draw() function orchestrates screens, responding to commands from sources like Arduino. Background music sets the tone for welcome and instructions, fading during gameplay focus. The setup() function initializes the canvas, video feed, and initial puzzle grid, making it the core of this interactive experience.

function captureAndSetupPuzzle(video) {
  if (video) {
    source = video.get();
    source.loadPixels(); // Ensure pixels are loaded
 if (source.width > 0 && source.height > 0) {
    // Resize the source image to fit the canvas
    source.resize(width, height);
    video.hide();

    w = Math.floor(width / cols);
    h = Math.floor(height / rows);

    for (let i = 0; i < cols; i++) {
      for (let j = 0; j < rows; j++) {
        let x = i * w;
        let y = j * h;
        let img = source.get(x, y, w, h); // Get a portion of the image for each tile

        if (i === cols - 1 && j === rows - 1) {
          board.push(-1);
          puzzle.tiles.push(new Tile(-1, img));
        } else {
          let index = i + j * cols;
          board.push(index);
          puzzle.tiles.push(new Tile(index, img));
        }
      }
    }

    puzzle.board = board.slice();
    puzzle.simpleShuffle(puzzle.board);

    currentScreen = 'game';
    puzzle.startTimer();
  } else {
    console.error("Error loading the video source");
    }
  }
}
function joystick(puzzle, direction) {
  let xOffset = (width - puzzle.w * puzzle.cols) / 1.3;
  let yOffset = (height - puzzle.h * puzzle.rows) / 2.5;

  // Calculate the tile indices based on joystick direction
  let i = -1,
    j = -1;
  let blank = puzzle.findBlank();
  let blankCol = blank % puzzle.cols;
  let blankRow = Math.floor(blank / puzzle.rows);

  switch (direction) {
    case 'LEFT':
      i = blankCol + 1;
      j = blankRow;
      moveSound.play();
      break;

    case 'RIGHT':
      i = blankCol - 1;
      j = blankRow;
      moveSound.play();
      break;

    case 'UP':
      i = blankCol;
      j = blankRow + 1;
      moveSound.play();
      break;

    case 'DOWN':
      i = blankCol;
      j = blankRow - 1;
      moveSound.play();
      break;

    default:
      // Handle other cases or unknown commands
      break;
  }

  if (i >= 0 && i < puzzle.cols && j >= 0 && j < puzzle.rows) {
    puzzle.move(i, j, puzzle.board);
  }
  writeSerial("MOVES:" + puzzle.getMoves() + "\n");
 // puzzle.updateTimer(); // Update the timer
 // puzzle.displayTimer(); // Display the timer
}

Description of communication between Arduino and p5.js

In my project, the Arduino and p5.js are like buddies chatting through a USB connection using serial communication. The Arduino sends messages over to p5.js, which eagerly listens and understands what’s being said. Depending on these messages, p5.js swings into action—triggers different functions, or tweaks how the whole thing behaves. It’s like they’re choreographing a dance together! This connection allows the tangible aspects of my project—like button pushes or sensor readings from the Arduino—affect what happens on the digital playground of the p5.js sketch. It’s a smooth back-and-forth: the Arduino talks to p5.js, guiding its moves, while p5.js keeps the Arduino in the loop about how the game’s going—sending updates on moves made and puzzles solved. They’ve got this teamwork thing down, with the Arduino shaking things up in the digital world and p5.js keeping it informed about what’s happening in the game.

What are some aspects of the project that you’re particularly proud of?

One thing I’m really excited about is achieving two-way communication in my project. It was a bit of a hurdle because I’ve always been more comfortable with software like p5.js, which made tasks like controlling mouse clicks and key presses with Arduino a breeze. But the real challenge came when I needed to send information back from p5.js to the Arduino IDE. Figuring out how to establish that connection was a bit tricky, but once I got it working, it felt like a big win.

Another part that I’m super proud of is the capture process. Initially, I had the picture saved and then converted it into the grid. However, I realized this meant that everyone’s picture would end up stored on my laptop, and I wasn’t keen on that idea. So, I reworked the code to immediately convert the picture as soon as it’s taken. I love this feature because it ensures privacy by not saving anyone’s picture on my device, and it’s more immediate and seamless for the users.

Links to resources used.

SparkFun Inventor’s Kit Experiment Guide – v4.1 – SparkFun Learn

Coding Challenge 165: Slide Puzzle – YouTube

reference | createVideo() (p5js.org)

How to connect and use an Analog Joystick with an Arduino – Tutorial – YouTube

LED pattern with button control on Arduino | Arduino Tutorial – YouTube

Challenges:

One of the toughest parts I tackled was turning the picture into a grid and getting those tiles to shift around. The real challenge here wasn’t just making the picture the puzzle, but doing it on the spot—taking a photo and instantly turning it into a puzzle. It felt like a puzzle itself! For a while, I hit a roadblock. I could snap the picture, form the tiles, but they just wouldn’t budge. Turned out, they weren’t connecting to my puzzle class properly. It was like they were stuck in place. To fix this, I had to dive into the puzzle class and really fine-tune how the capturing worked. It was trial and error, a lot of experimenting. Then, I stumbled upon this function called video() in p5.js, and that was a game-changer. It helped me get things back on track and finally, my project started to click.

Future Work:

I’ve been thinking about how to take this project to the next level and turn it into more of a game. For me, this whole thing has been a way to relax and unwind, not really about competing. But I think adding a competitive element could make it way more interesting. I’ve been considering the idea of making it multiplayer, so that more than one player can get involved in the game. Imagine friends coming together, enjoying some puzzling challenges, and maybe even a bit of friendly competition. It could be a great way for them to hang out and have a good time. By making these changes, I believe it’ll become a fun escape for folks who enjoy puzzles or just want to kick back and have some light-hearted rivalry.

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Mini Disco

User testing:

Reflecting on the user testing of my Mini Disco project with my friend, I found that the experience was quite self-explanatory and intuitive. The design, featuring an arrow pointing towards the sound sensor, seemed to effectively guide the user without the need for additional instructions. My friend was able to figure out the interaction – singing or making noise to trigger the light show – quite easily.

From this testing, I realized the strengths of my project lie in its simplicity and the immediate engagement it offers. Users can interact naturally without needing a detailed explanation, which I believe is a key aspect of a successful interactive design.

However, I see an opportunity for improvement in the visual aspect of the project. Initially, I used cotton to diffuse the light from the RGB LED, but I think what might have been the better option was to replace it with a dome however with the lack of materials I wasn’t able to. My aim is to enhance the visual impact of the light display. and so I envision that a dome could better reflect and spread the light, creating a more immersive and expansive effect that more closely mimics the vibrant atmosphere of a disco.

This change, I believe, could elevate the overall experience, making it not just an interactive piece but also a more captivating visual spectacle. The challenge will be to integrate the dome in a way that complements the existing design while also enhancing the interplay of light and sound.

Concept:

Originally, I envisioned creating a dynamic light source that would visually respond to sound. My plan was to set up a microphone/sound sensor(analog signal) to capture the surrounding audio vibes, where different frequencies and volumes would trigger varied light displays in an RGB LED. For instance, high-pitched sounds would shift the LED towards blue hues, while deep bass notes would turn it red.

I intended to use P5.js for color mapping, transforming the intensity and frequency of the captured sound into dynamic, responsive color schemes. The idea was to have the visuals come alive with vibrant colors and gradients, creating a visually harmonious representation of the audio.

Despite a minor adjustment in my original plan, the essence of the project remains intact. Initially, I intended to use a frequency-sensitive sound sensor, but due to its malfunction, I had to opt for a readily available sensor that operates on a digital signal. This new sensor, while not detecting varied sound frequencies, adeptly measures volume levels furthermore the color transitions of the LED now respond to the loudness or softness of the surrounding sounds.

 

How does the implementation work?

Arduino Implementation:

In my Arduino setup, I began by establishing serial communication at a baud rate of 9600, a crucial step for enabling data exchange between the Arduino and my computer. I configured pin 8 as an input to connect my digital sound sensor, which serves as the project’s primary interactive element. Additionally, pins 9, 10, and 11 were set as outputs for controlling the red, green, and blue channels of an RGB LED, allowing me to create a wide range of colors. In the loop function, I constantly read the state of the sound sensor. If no sound is detected (soundData == LOW), I programmed the RGB LED to emit a blue light, however with sound, it glows red. This immediate visual feedback is achieved by manipulating the LED’s color through the changeLEDColor function, using analogWrite to adjust each color channel. Alongside controlling the LED, I also send the sound sensor’s state as serial data to my computer, where it’s utilized in the p5.js sketch for a corresponding visual display.

p5.js Sketch Implementation

In parallel with the Arduino setup, I developed a p5.js sketch to create a digital visual representation corresponding to the physical inputs from the sound sensor. The sketch initializes by creating a canvas and populating it with a series of particles, each represented by an instance of the Particle class. These particles are given random positions across the canvas, along with properties for size, color, and movement speed. The heart of the sketch lies in the readSerial function, responsible for reading and processing the serial data sent from the Arduino. This data, indicating the presence or absence of sound, is used to dynamically alter the behavior of the particles on the canvas. In the draw function, I update the background and set the text properties. If the serial connection is not yet established, the sketch prompts the user to initiate the connection. Once connected, the sketch confirms this with a display message and starts animating the particles based on the sensor data. The particles grow in size and move smoothly across the canvas when sound is detected, creating a visually engaging and responsive digital environment that mirrors the physical inputs from the Arduino.

Schematic

Description of Arduino code

Arduino code:

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  pinMode(8, INPUT); // Sound sensor input

  // RGB LED pins
  pinMode(9, OUTPUT); // Red
  pinMode(10, OUTPUT); // Green
  pinMode(11, OUTPUT); // Blue
}

void loop() {
  int soundData = digitalRead(8); // Read the sound sensor
  Serial.println(soundData);      // Send sound data to serial for debugging

  if (soundData == LOW) {
    // Sound not detected - change LED to one color 
    changeLEDColor(0, 0, 255); // Blue
  } else {
    
   
    // sound detected - change LED to another color (e.g., red)
    changeLEDColor(255, 0, 0); // Red
     delay(50);
  }

  
}

void changeLEDColor(int redValue, int greenValue, int blueValue) {
  analogWrite(9, redValue);   // Red channel
  analogWrite(10, greenValue); // Green channel
  analogWrite(11, blueValue);  // Blue channel
}

 

Setup Function:

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  pinMode(8, INPUT); // Sound sensor input
  pinMode(9, OUTPUT); // Red
  pinMode(10, OUTPUT); // Green
  pinMode(11, OUTPUT); // Blue
}

• Initializes serial communication at a baud rate of 9600. This is used for debugging purposes to send data to the serial monitor of the Arduino IDE.
• Configures the pin connected to the sound sensor (pin 8) as an input.
• Sets up the RGB LED pins (pins 9, 10, and 11) as outputs. Each pin controls one color component of the RGB LED (red, green, and blue, respectively).

Loop Function:

void loop() {
  int soundData = digitalRead(8); // Read the sound sensor
  Serial.println(soundData);      // Send sound data to serial for debugging

  if (soundData == LOW) {
    // Sound not detected - change LED to one color 
    changeLEDColor(0, 0, 255); // Blue
  } else {
    
   
    // sound detected - change LED to another color
    changeLEDColor(255, 0, 0); // Red
     delay(50);
  }

 

• Continuously reads the state of the digital sound sensor.
• If sound is detected the LED changes to red by calling changeLEDColor with (255, 0, 0), which are the RGB values for red.
• If no sound is detected the LED (soundData isLOW) the RGB LED is set to blue. This is achieved by calling the changeLEDColor function with the parameters (0, 0, 255), representing the RGB values for blue.
• There is a short delay (delay(50)) at the end of the loop for stability and to control the rate at which the sensor reads data.

changeLEDColor Function:

void changeLEDColor(int redValue, int greenValue, int blueValue) {
  analogWrite(9, redValue);   // Red channel
  analogWrite(10, greenValue); // Green channel
  analogWrite(11, blueValue);  // Blue channel
}

• A helper function that takes three parameters: redValue, greenValue, and blueValue, each representing the intensity of the respective color channel of the RGB LED.
• The analogWrite function is used to set the brightness of each color channel. For example, analogWrite(9, redValue); sets the brightness of the red channel.

Description of the p5.js Sketch

p5.js Sketch:

let serial;
let latestData = "waiting for data";
let particles = [];
let cols, rows;
let particleCount = 100; // Adjust for more/less particles
function setup() {
  createCanvas(windowWidth, windowHeight);

  // Create randomly positioned particles
  for (let i = 0; i < particleCount; i++) {
    let x = random(width);
    let y = random(height);
    particles.push(new Particle(x, y));
  }
}

function readSerial(data) {
  console.log(data);
  latestData = data.trim();
}

function draw() {
  background('#00003f');
  textSize(30);
  textFont('Courier New');
  textAlign(CENTER, CENTER)

  if (!serialActive) {
      fill(0, 102, 153);
    text("Press Space Bar to select Serial Port", width / 2, height / 2);
  } else {
    text("Connected", 20, 30);

    let sensorValue = parseInt(latestData);
    particles.forEach(p => {
      p.update(sensorValue);
      p.display();
    });
  }
}

function keyPressed() {
  if (key === ' ') {
    setUpSerial();
  }
}
class Particle {
  constructor(x, y) {
    this.x = x;
    this.y = y;
    this.baseSize = 10; // Base size of the circle
    this.size = this.baseSize;
    this.color = color(random(255), random(255), random(255));
    this.xSpeed = random(-1, 1);
    this.ySpeed = random(-1, 1);
  }

  update(sensorValue) {
    // Resize based on sensor value
    this.size = sensorValue === 1 ? 30 : 10;

    // Update position for smooth floating
    this.x += this.xSpeed;
    this.y += this.ySpeed;

    // Bounce off edges
    if (this.x > width || this.x < 0) {
      this.xSpeed *= -1;
    }
    if (this.y > height || this.y < 0) {
      this.ySpeed *= -1;
    }
  }

  display() {
    fill(this.color);
    noStroke();
    ellipse(this.x, this.y, this.size, this.size);
  }
}

// Resize canvas when the window is resized
function windowResized() {
  resizeCanvas(windowWidth, windowHeight);
}

1. Setup and Particle Creation:
   • The setup() function initializes the canvas to cover the entire window. Within this function, I create multiple particles, each represented by an instance of the Particle class. The number of particles is determined by particleCount.
   • Each particle is randomly positioned across the canvas. This is done by assigning random x and y coordinates within the canvas’s dimensions.
2. Serial Data Handling:
   • The readSerial(data) function is responsible for processing incoming serial data from the Arduino. This data represents the state of the sound sensor. The function trims any whitespace from the received data and stores it in latestData for further processing.
3. Drawing and Animation:
   • In the draw() function, the background is set to a dark blue color ('#00003f').
   • The sketch checks the serialActive flag to determine if the serial connection is established. If not, it prompts the user to activate the serial port. Once connected, it displays “Connected” on the canvas.
   • The particle behavior is updated based on the parsed sensor value (sensorValue). Each particle’s size and position are adjusted accordingly.
4. Particle Class:
   • The Particle class defines the properties and behaviors of individual particles. Each particle has its position (x, y), base size, color, and speed (xSpeed, ySpeed).
   • The update(sensorValue) method adjusts the particle’s size based on the sound sensor input. It also updates the particle’s position to create a floating effect. If a particle reaches the edge of the canvas, it bounces back, creating a dynamic, contained animation within the canvas boundaries.
   • The display() method draws each particle as an ellipse with its respective properties.
5. Interactivity:
   • The keyPressed() function listens for a spacebar press to initiate the serial connection setup, a key part of the interaction between the Arduino and the p5.js sketch.
6. Responsive Design:
   • The windowResized() function ensures that the canvas size adjusts appropriately when the browser window is resized, maintaining the integrity of the visual display.

Description of Interaction Design

• Engaging Invitation:
  • Users are greeted with an inviting message on the project box, clearly stating: “Sing for the Party People.” This message sets the tone and clearly communicates what is expected from the user.
• Sound Trigger:
  • As soon as the user starts singing or making noise, the embedded digital sound sensor within the box detects this audio input. The sensor is finely tuned to respond to a range of sounds from soft humming to loud singing.
• Responsive Light Display:
  • Upon detecting sound, the sensor triggers a colorful light show from the RGB LED. The LED cycles through colors, creating a mini disco effect that transforms the space with vibrant hues.
  • The intensity, frequency, and duration of the user’s singing directly influence the light patterns, making each experience unique and personal.
• Visual Feedback:
  • The LED serves as immediate visual feedback for the user’s actions. This feedback loop encourages continued interaction and exploration of different volumes of sound.
  • The changing colors of the LED create a playful and immersive environment, enhancing the joyous atmosphere of a disco.

Description of communication between Arduino and p5.js

Arduino to p5.js Communication:

1. Serial Communication Setup:
   • On the Arduino side, I initialize serial communication in the setup() function using Serial.begin(9600);. This sets up the Arduino to send data over the serial port at a baud rate of 9600 bits per second.
   • In the main loop (void loop()), the Arduino reads data from the digital sound sensor connected to pin 8 using digitalRead(8);. This sensor detects the presence or absence of sound, returning either a HIGH or LOW signal.
2. Sending Data from Arduino:
   • Depending on the state of the sound sensor, the Arduino sends this information to the connected computer via the serial port using Serial.println(soundData);. The data sent is a simple numerical value (0 or 1) representing the absence or presence of sound.
3. Receiving Data in p5.js:
   • On the p5.js side, the sketch establishes a serial connection to receive data from the Arduino. This is done using the p5.SerialPort library, which facilitates serial communication in a web environment.
   • The readSerial(data) function in the p5.js sketch is responsible for reading incoming serial data. It processes the data received from the Arduino, trims any whitespace, and stores it in the latestData variable.

p5.js Processing and Visualization:

1. Data Interpretation:
   • The p5.js sketch interprets the received data (latestData) as the state of the sound sensor. This data is then used to influence the behavior of visual elements within the sketch, such as the size and movement of particles.
   • The draw() function continuously updates the canvas, where each particle’s appearance and behavior are adjusted based on the sensor data. For instance, the presence of sound might cause the particles to increase in size or change position, creating a dynamic and responsive visual effect.
2. Feedback Loop:
   • The seamless exchange of data between the Arduino and the p5.js sketch creates an interactive feedback loop. Physical input from the sound sensor directly influences the digital visualization, making the experience responsive to real-world interactions.

What are some aspects of the project that you’re particularly proud of?

Reflecting on my project, I feel a deep sense of pride, particularly in the creation of the physical component – the mini sound-activated disco club. This aspect of the project was not only a challenge but a testament to my creativity and technical skills. The process of bringing a conceptual idea to life, blending interactive technology with artistic design, was immensely fulfilling. Another aspect I’m especially proud of is my adaptability and problem-solving skills. When faced with the unexpected challenge of the original sensor breaking, I quickly adapted, demonstrating resilience and quick thinking, hallmarks of a true interactive media student. Utilizing a different sensor and modifying my project accordingly, I managed to preserve the essence of my initial concept. This ability to think on my feet and craft a functional and engaging project with the available resources, even though it diverged from my original plan, is something I take great pride in. It underscores my capacity to innovate and create meaningful interactive experiences, regardless of the obstacles encountered.

What are some areas for future improvement?

Reflecting on my project, I recognize several areas for future improvement, particularly influenced by the challenges and lessons learned during its development. One key area is the need for contingency planning in hardware-based projects. The unexpected malfunction of my original sensor forced me to significantly simplify my original idea, mainly due to time constraints and the limitations of the replacement sensor. This experience taught me the importance of having spare parts and tools readily available. It’s a lesson that will influence my approach to future projects, ensuring I’m better prepared for unforeseen setbacks.

Additionally, the limitations imposed by the replacement sensor, which could only read binary values (0s and 1s), restricted my ability to create a more complex and visually appealing p5.js sketch. This constraint became particularly evident in my efforts to craft a visually aesthetic sound visualizer. The binary input didn’t allow for the nuanced interpretation of sound that I had initially envisioned. Moving forward, I aim to explore more advanced sensors and input methods that offer a wider range of data. This will enable me to create more intricate and engaging visualizations in my p5.js sketches, aligning more closely with my original vision of an interactive and visually rich experience.

IM SHOWCASE